Denarius of Septimius Severus c. 203

Editor: This is a Denarius of Septimius Severus. Just holding an object like this, passed from hand to hand centuries ago, is amazing. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Coins are fascinating; they're a form of portraiture and propaganda. Consider the emperor's profile – what does his image project about his power and authority? Editor: I see a strong profile, very Roman. How would the average person understand the images and words on the coin? Curator: The images and inscriptions reinforced the emperor's image, linking him to virtues like victory and prosperity. Coins were small, but mighty communicators. Every symbol was carefully chosen to convey a message. It’s like a cultural fingerprint. Editor: That makes me think about our cultural symbols today. Curator: Exactly! We are constantly surrounded by imagery, much like those who used these coins. Understanding this coin helps us understand ourselves.